United States (US) spirits imports to South Africa have continued to grow as local consumers show an increasing appetite for American whiskies, according to the US Distilled Spirits Council.

Sales of US spirits increased to US$19 million in value from January to November last year compared to 2017’s total recorded import sales of US$16.1 million.

Imports of American whiskies, including Tennessee Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye Whiskey, grew 44% year on year, according to Distilled Spirits Council senior vice president of international trade, Christine LoCascio.

“South Africa serves as one of our most promising export markets for American whiskies,” she said, pointing out that the premium brands had been particularly popular.